Local MSP Jackie Baillie has secured a debate in the Scottish Parliament on the future of maternity services at the Vale of Leven Hospital. 

The debate will take place on Tuesday 13 September and Jackie will use the opportunity to call on MSPs from all parties to unite against the transfer of birth services from the Vale to Paisley or Govan.

The Scottish Labour MSP lodged the motion for a debate so that MSPs would have the chance to oppose the health board’s proposals and voice the concerns of people in Dumbarton, Vale of Leven and Helensburgh who are concerned about the centralisation of local health services.

The health board has announced a list of proposed cuts designed to plug its £69 million deficit, including the closure of the birthing unit at the Vale of Leven Hospital and the transfer of emergency children’s services from the RAH to the QEUH in Govan.

Jackie Baillie is encouraging anyone who wants to watch the debate at the Scottish Parliament to contact her office on 01389 734214 to reserve their place in the public gallery.

Jackie said:

“I am delighted that my motion has been accepted for debate and that MSPs will finally be able to discuss the proposed cuts to local health services at the Vale of Leven Hospital. I hope that colleagues from across the Chamber will use this opportunity to reject the health board’s cuts and support the right of local women to choose the type and place of birth which is best for them.

“It is disappointing that the motion has so far not been signed by a single SNP MSP. Perhaps on Tuesday they will have a change of heart and follow the lead of their councillors in West Dunbartonshire who have put their party differences aside to support our local hospital.

“We need to work together on a cross-party basis to ensure that the Scottish Government is left in no doubt that the whole community is united against any proposal to reduce services. Only then will the Health Secretary agree that she cannot stand aside and do nothing while the health board rips the promises made in the Vision for the Vale